ST introduces a new digital power controller to bring new options to 600W-6kW applications

     The STNRGPF02, a new power IC for dual-channel staggered boost PFC topologies, is added to the STMicroelectronics digital Power controller family. Customers can easily configure the IC using the eDesignSuite software. The software also helps customers quickly complete circuit design and external component selection.

     The STNRGPF02 allows applications from 600W to 6kW to enjoy the benefits of digital power, such as greater flexibility and shorter design cycles for ST solutions compared to typical analog control methods; At the same time, compared to other digital solutions, the ST solution has a higher system integration ratio and does not require an additional DSP processor or microcontroller. Typical applications for STNRGPF02 include industrial motors, air conditioners, home and commercial appliances, mobile communication base stations, telecommunications infrastructure, data center equipment, and uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).

     The STNRGPF02 is a Continuous on-mode (CCM) fixed frequency power supply IC with average current mode control function, which is an optimized combination of simulator and digital control, integrating a hardware analog proportional integration (PI) compensator in the internal current loop and a digital PI controller in the external voltage loop to ensure fast control response. The cascade control circuit of voltage and current circuits adjusts the output voltage by changing the total average inductance current.

     Designed for mechanical surge current control using external relays or three-terminal bidirectional thyristor switches, the new controller is part of ST's digital power portfolio, as is the STNRGPF12, designed for digital surge control using solid-state devices. Both controllers support setting of tangent, load feedforward, and burst modes to maximize energy efficiency. Built-in protection features include settable fast-acting overheat protection and overcurrent protection (OCP), overvoltage protection (OVP), and soft start management, as well as PFC failure and PFC OK status indication pins.

     Configuring the STNRGPF02 with eDesignSuite is as simple as entering the power converter specifications and running the configurator. The tool generates a complete main circuit bill of materials (BOM) and binary object code, and the firmware code is downloaded to the chip via the serial communication port, thus greatly reducing the typical power supply design cycle. Developers can also monitor PFC parameters through the serial communication port of the chip.

     The STNRGPF02 evaluation board, the STEVAL-IPFC02V1, is now available to speed up the power development process using the STNRGPF02. The board includes a PFC reference design with period-by-cycle analog current stabilization and digital control flexibility, enabling a power supply with very high power factor and very low harmonic distortion.